Kylian Mbappé defends dedication to Real Madrid after trip with actor girlfriend

• Injured forward went to Sardinia as the clásico looms

• Criticism ignores ‘reality of Kylian’s commitment’

Kylian Mbappé has said he remains fully committed to his recovery from a hamstring injury after facing criticism for travelling to Sardinia with the actor Ester Expósito last weekend. Spanish media and Real Madrid supporters have questioned Mbappé dedication to his team before Sunday’s clasico with Barcelona.

Mbappé’s representatives issued a statement on Tuesday denying any wrongdoing. “Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,” the statement read.